The Black Leopard & Puffin Nuffin BracesA Great New Sound...
Back in the early 90's I discovered Brazil Row on West 46th. I settled on Via Brazil just off 6th Avenue. First off, and I'm sorry but it's true, it ain't what it used to be. The remodel took a lot of the charm outta the place as well as the close tables where you could get to know the folks around you. Crank up the Samba, throw down a couple Caipirinha's and you can get to know the folks around you pretty easily. What fuels the party is Cachaca. I don't know how to get an uncial under the third 'c' which changes to a 'z' so it's pronounced Cachaza but now you know. This stuff is Brazilian jet fuel. The Caipirinha is nothing but jet fuel, some muddled limes and a spoon of superfine sugar or azucaaarrrrr.
I wanted that wonderful sugar cane taste that Caipirinha brings but didn't want the hammer. So, I went with this cocktail, The Black Leopard. I never heard of it but it was in the little recipe book that came with the jet fuel. There are a number of Cachacas to choose from. I chose the cool looking bottle. Anyway, the drink is a shot of jet fuel, half a shot of coconut water and it's topped off with root beer. I didn't think it sounded very good and I was right. This just doesn't work. My advice? Stick to the Caipirinha but go easy and eat. A lot. Then it's time to dance. I look like an asshole but I feel like Sergio Mendes.
Those braces are a nice contrast to the Black Leopard. There is something about Sergio Mendes and Brazil 66 that always made me feel like an adult...even when I was 10. Bossa Nova was heard a lot in my house growing up but I don't remember seeing braces. These are a limited edition by Thurston in the UK. Only 500 in the world so I don't expect to see them anywhere but on me.
The only way I could improve on Thurston is to have a pair custom made. And that may not be a bad idea. Unlike a suit or shirt - - You never outgrow braces. Hard to lose a pair when you're wearing them...although a client tried to give a pair I was wearing to a stripper once. And I like the idea of using silks based on 18th Century great coat trim. What really has me sold on the idea is their 'hip' days are long gone. Just a bunch of guys stuck in the 80's still wear them. Always fun to show 'em off on the dance floor. Geez, I wonder if S.O.B.s is open?
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